The Transtheoretical Model, Physical Activity, and Falls Risks Among Diverse Older Adults

Abstract

Given the negative health-related consequences of falls risks and the high inactivity levels among older adults, the study’s purpose was to examine the relations among motivational aspects derived from the transtheoretical model (TTM), physical activity (PA), and falls risks for 170 diverse older adults (M_age = 72.24 years). Based on MANOVA, the TTM constructs differed in the expected direction across the SOC. Based on two ANOVAs, PA increased and falls risks decreased across the SOC. According to two stepwise multiple regressions, self-efficacy was the only predictor of PA (R² = 13.5%). The most important predictors of falls risks were PA (R²Δ = 18.4%), behavioral processes (R²Δ = 4.8%), and self-efficacy (R²Δ = 2%). Falls risk prevention can be enhanced by PA, behavioral processes, and confidence.

KEYWORDS:

• balance
• exercise
• gerontology
• motivation